NOVEMBER 2023
Future / Member Ride:
aptera
3D PRINTING AND THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET What does the future hold?
5 WAYS TO DEAL WITH THE IMPACT OF SHORT-STAFFING Expert advice from The Workshop Whisperer.
CALENDAR of events Christchurch Trade Show
Dunedin Trade Show 30 November 2023
28 November 2023
Timaru Trade Show 29 November 2023
STAY TUNED! Log in to myCAP to check out all the upcoming events or for further information please contact our Events team.
cap.coop/events
The
0800 401 444
events@capricorn.coop
Puzzle Game WINNERS
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CASCADES AUTO ELECTRICAL $10,000 MANAWATU AUTOGLASS & GLAZING $1,000 PAYLESS MECHANICAL $1,000 PRIME PANEL & PAINT $1,000 A big thank you to all Members who have participated in the promotion so far! More information on how to play (and T&Cs of the Parts Connection The Puzzle Game 2023) can be found at thepuzzlegame.co.nz
June - August 2023
AUTODATA 100,000 BONUS REWARDS POINTS PROMOTION Congratulations to HEALESVILLE DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE from VICTORIA, Australia - the winner of our Autodata 100,000 Bonus Rewards Points Promotion.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH TO ALL MEMBERS WHO PARTICIPATED IN OUR LATEST PROMOTION.
CONTENTS CONTENTS FEBRUARY 2023 NOVEMBER 2023
David Fraser Group CEO
CEO’s message
6 BENEFITS OF
BUSINESS FINANCE 5 ways access to finance can boost your business.
8 KEEPING UP WITH
Human ingenuity has been gradually changing the way we live for millennia. We’re an incredibly intelligent species, inventing all manner of machines to make life easier—or, at least, to make our activities more profitable. For as long as this creativity has been leading to advances in technology, there have also been people falling all over themselves to reject it.
TECHNOLOGY IN THE OFFICE
The invention in 1764 of the spinning jenny, a machine to weave cotton, industrialised the textile industry—shifting the making of fabric from homes to factories. Fifty years later, as technology advanced further with the creation of mechanised looms, a group of disgruntled men who called themselves Luddites came along and started smashing up the machines in protest at being displaced from their jobs. For all their destruction, they couldn’t stop progress.
12 5 WAYS TO DEAL
I mention this because our industry stands on the precipice of a revolution of our own. There is huge technological change to come—from the switch to EVs and autonomous driving, to the as-yet-unknown impacts of AI and 3D printing, to great leaps in the capabilities of business automation and advanced diagnostic software.
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It would be churlish for an industry created entirely by technology, dedicated to servicing that technology, to somehow resent its advance. As the Luddites discovered, the change is coming anyway—and it’s our job to embrace it and be ready for it. Instead of worrying that technology is here to steal our jobs, we must look at the positives, the opportunities. Specifically for the automotive aftermarket, an industry wracked by an ongoing skills shortage that is hampering productivity and profitability, technology can play a significant role in improving our business efficiency. Anything that saves time, effort and money should be something for Members to get excited about, rather than to fear. So, in this edition of Ignition, we take a deep dive into some of the great technological changes that are underway and some that are on the horizon. We look at the opportunities, analyse the perceived threats, and take the time to consider how all of us in the automotive aftermarket can make the most of this brave new digital world. Because that digital future is coming, and the more comfortable we are with it, the better we can thrive.
Is your business tech lagging behind what’s in your workshop?
WITH THE IMPACT OF SHORT-STAFFING Expert advice from The Workshop Whisperer.
THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET
Is this new technology likely to make a splash?
22 FUTURE/MEMBER RIDE: APTERA
Could the Aptera be the EV that changes everything?
26 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC
This high-end EV is an interesting beast that’s enjoyable to drive!
David Fraser Group CEO
All information, material and content in this edition of Ignition is provided or sourced by Capricorn Society Limited (“Capricorn”) for general information only and is not intended to be advice or comment on any particular matter or subject. Before acting on any information in this edition of Ignition you should consider the relevance of it to your own circumstances and, if necessary, take professional advice. Any opinions expressed in an Ignition article are those of the relevant individual author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of Capricorn. Capricorn makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of any material (including without limitation, any third party authored article or supplier advertisement in respect of which Capricorn merely acts as conduit) included in this edition of Ignition. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Capricorn, its officers, employees, agents and representatives disclaim any and all liability to you or any other person for any loss or damage whatsoever connected with: i. reliance on any material in Ignition; or ii. any inaccuracy, error or omission in any material in Ignition. CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023 3
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Prize draw every month October to December Use CAP ezi-parts in October, November and December to go in the draw to win 50,000 Bonus Rewards Points. Automatically receive an entry into the draw when you purchase through CAP ezi-parts using your Capricorn Trade Account. With three separate monthly draws, make sure you don’t miss out by purchasing at least once per respective month. Unlimited entries available.* Request your parts today at cap.coop/capeziparts * Terms and Conditions apply. Eligible New Zealand Members receive 1 entry per purchase made on their Capricorn Trade Account, using CAP ezi-parts. Winner is selected from a random draw. For full promotion and CAP ezi-parts Terms and Conditions, visit cap.coop/tc.Participation in Capricorn Rewards is subject to the Capricorn Rewards Terms and Conditions which can be found at cap.coop/tc CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
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BUSINESSBOOSTING BENEFITS OF ACCESSING FINANCE 6 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
Are you putting off investing in the tools you need to run your business more efficiently because of the up-front expense?
M
any business owners encounter this dilemma, yet there’s a simple way to get access to the tools you need to supercharge your business - an equipment or business vehicle loan. With these loans, you may be able to borrow up to 100% of the value of the asset you want to purchase (subject to credit terms) and repay the amount over a fixed term at a fixed interest rate. Here are five reasons a loan like this can be a great option for businesses like yours.
et the equipment you 1 G need now
Making do with outdated tools can be a huge drain on a technician’s time, making your business inefficient, less productive and less profitable than it could be. Chances are, you know the tool you need; you’re just not able to invest in it right now. With an equipment loan, the tools you need could be in your workshop and being used by your technicians in just a few days’ time—with an immediate impact on efficiency and productivity. An equipment loan also means you may not have to scrimp and buy the cheapest version of a tool available. Instead, you could invest in the tool you really need, with all the benefits that brings.
M anage your cash flow and conserve your working capital Paying up-front for tools, equipment or a work vehicle is often a major outlay, which can have a huge impact on your business’ cash flow. By using an equipment and business vehicle loan to make the purchase instead, you spread the cost of the initial purchase out over a longer period of time. There’s no up-front hit to your bank account and you know how much you’ll be paying back each month. Similarly, an equipment or business vehicle loan preserves the working capital you have in the bank, ensuring your purchase doesn’t impact your liquidity. It’s all about risk mitigation. This means that if an unexpected expense crops up, your working capital won’t have been affected by the purchase. That can be great piece of mind, especially for small- to mediumsized business owners who may have relatively low “rainy day” cash reserves in the bank and therefore may be more susceptible to these kinds of events.
U se the equipment while you pay for it One of the major benefits associated with accessing finance to acquire a business vehicle or piece of kit is that you’re able to use it while you pay it off. This is especially valuable if the equipment/business vehicle you’ve financed is used to boost productivity and/or turnover. This means that you may be able to pay it off quicker and potentially start seeing a profit on your investment sooner (compared with waiting to save up and purchase the equipment outright).
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Enjoy the tax benefits
There can also be some great tax benefits to using finance. You may be able to claim depreciation and interest paid, and other deductions on the actual repayments. Talk to your accountant to ensure you understand the depreciation and tax implications of any particular piece of equipment or business motor vehicle you’re considering purchasing.
Get loan approval quickly Applying for a loan sounds like a lot of paperwork but, in truth, an equipment or business vehicle loan can be easy to apply for and approvals can come very quickly. Take, for example, CAP ezifinance, which offers loans to Members for amounts over 2,500 with repayment options over 12 to 60 months. Our pre-existing relationship means we already know you and your business, so CAP ezi-finance can provide: Fast and hassle-free service $0 set-up and application fees Competitive interest rates Guidance and support throughout the process A lender you know and can trust. You also earn Rewards Points on your purchases!*
Want to learn more about how CAP ezi-finance can help you take advantage of the benefits outlined above? Talk to your Area Manager or visit cap.coop/finance to learn more and get an indicative quote online today.
Capricorn Finance offers business finance through Capricorn Society Financial Services Pty Ltd (ACN 129 134 667/NZBN 9429050429110). Fees & charges, terms and conditions and lending criteria apply. This article does not, nor is it intended to, constitute financial advice. Please consult your professional adviser before relying on any information contained herein. *Purchases eligible to earn Capricorn Rewards Points and the rate of Capricorn Rewards Points earned per dollar spent may vary. Participation in the Capricorn Rewards Program is subject to Terms and Conditions which can be found at cap.coop/tc
Keeping up with technology in the office by Geoff Mutton
Over the last 20 years, auto aftermarket workshops have been forced to invest in the tools and technology essential to survival, but it’s a different story in the front office of most businesses.
T
here’s one simple explanation for the slower rate of investment in front office systems — most workshop owners are technicians by trade and their priorities are on the tools, not in the office technologies which really keep the business ticking over. Expecting the office to just keep performing using the same systems they might have started with 20 years ago is inviting disaster. With antiquated processes, the office can quickly become a bottleneck that younger customers, with experience in modern systems, may not tolerate. If they think your workshop is old-fashioned, they won’t hesitate to look elsewhere for a workshop more aligned with their thinking. We are not talking about taking a giant leap into artificial intelligence, the current fad. Its impact on an office environment is yet to be made clear, so that will be a subject for another year. Workshops need the ‘now’ technologies that can have an immediate and positive impact on the business.
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Live chat and two-way SMS Essentially, these are platforms that allow two-way communication with customers. Workshops use them in all sorts of ways, from handling enquiries to encouraging reviews. At times, messaging can be more convenient and efficient than phone calls. Look at the way almost everyone handles their mobile phones — their eyes are glued to the screen, checking messages. They have become used to reacting and responding immediately, and that can only be good for a business message. Educational videos Educational videos have been around for a while, but it has become considerably easier to integrate videos into customer communication systems. Video is a powerful tool, quite capable of doing a lot of selling for the workshop. For example: A customer needs to be told their car’s timing belt is due for replacement. Your office manager would typically call. A better option that would no doubt have greater appeal, especially to the younger market, would be to SMS a service report together with a timing belt animation video, followed by a phone call — seeing is believing.
Social media has been the training ground for communication techniques since the day it went live, so all you are doing is matching your outgoing information flow with technology that most people are now using. Even handling social media in a business environment has become easier — If you are unsure about how to use it, don't hesitate to ask for assistance. Service and repair video recordings Personalised service videos have become essential for relaying specific issues about a customer’s car problem. There’s hardly a mobile phone on the market that can’t produce a watchable video from the hands of an amateur. The videos can be simple — the simpler the better — and should inform customers why certain repairs and maintenance are necessary within certain time frames. Car dealerships have used video clips to inform customers for several years, so it was just a matter of time before it could become simple and foolproof enough to be used in the smallest of aftermarket workshops. Workshops which have tried the video approach to wow their customers have achieved just that — watching a personalised video of their vehicle in the workshop is the ultimate wow.
Electronic diaries and job cards
Finance solutions
A paper diary and job card might have been the norm only five years ago, but no longer. Electronic versions that are now included automatically in modern point-of-sale programs are more accurate and accessible and certainly easier to use.
Most franchise groups and dealerships now offer some form of finance facility, but don’t confuse this with direct credit. These bigger outfits outsource the collecting of the payment to a third-party finance company and are paid upfront, less a small agreed commission.
Electronic job cards and diaries might not be perfect and perhaps may not be as flexible as a paper version, but their efficiency far outweighs any negatives. Those who go electronic never revert back to the paper version. Online bookings Online bookings are the norm in most industries, but the uptake in the automotive repair industry has been much slower. To a certain extent this may always be the case because customers with a serious vehicle issue will usually prefer to talk it through with a real person. This doesn’t mean the option of online bookings should not be offered. Many customers will appreciate the convenience. Most automotive software programs now offer online bookings as an option. If that’s not viable, talk to your web developer and they will easily create one that will notify you via email each time a booking is received.
The idea of offering these payment options is to help those customers who may not have immediate access to funds, hence removing the ‘can’t afford it’ objection. Offering finance solutions might not be something you want to openly advertise, but they can be a great option to have available if needed. Change can be hard, but the cost of not changing can be harder. I encourage you to be open-minded and consider how new technologies can help streamline your office procedures and improve your customer service experience.
CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
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^Participation in Capricorn Rewards Program is subject to the Capricorn Rewards Program Terms and Conditions which can be found at cap.coop/tc Limits or sub-limits apply. Products sold through Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd (NZBN 9429041139813) include discretionary risk protection and general insurance products. Discretionary risk protection is issued out of Australia by Capricorn Mutual Ltd. Before deciding to acquire discretionary risk protection you should consider the Product Disclosure Statement to see if it is appropriate for you. This can be obtained from Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd by phoning 0800 555 303 via email info@capricornrisk.com or by visiting website capricorn.coop/risk. General insurance products are issued by a range of insurers and are available through Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd as a member broker of PSC Connect NZ Limited. Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd is a registered financial services provider (390446) and a corporate Authorised Representative (No. 460893) of Capricorn Mutual Ltd (AFSL 230038). Capricorn Mutual Ltd has published a Target Market Determination for its protection which is available at www.capricorn.coop/about/capricorn-mutual.
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ways to deal with the impact of short-staffing
What can you do if you’re struggling to find the people you need?
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I
s your business in need of an extra pair of hands (or more) on the tools? Then you’re not alone. Our State of the Nation Special Report: The Skills Shortage has highlighted that this is an issue that’s affecting a lot of Members. In fact, our research uncovered that only 44% of Members reported that they were adequately staffed.
So, what do you do if you’re part of the 56% who can’t find the people they need? We asked automotive business coach Workshop Whisperer Rachael Evans for her advice.
Explore ways you can do more with less “I have a client who this time last year had a team of 10,” Rachael said. “Now he’s got a team of six and they’re outselling and outproducing what they did with 10. “He was forced into that situation because of the skills shortage, but this is the result.” Rachael said: W orkshop owners often don’t realise they’re actually overstaffed. O perating with fewer staff means you’re saving on your wages bill. B usiness owners often accept a lower level of individual productivity than they should.
Rachael’s benchmark: Two technicians and two apprentices should be able to generate $1.2 million in revenue themselves if they work at an efficient and productive capacity.
CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023 1 3
Consider skilled migration “100% of our clients who have recruited offshore in the last 18 months cannot speak highly enough of the result,” Rachael said.
Rachael’s secret to success: Support your sponsored workers to connect with the local community, so they can start to put down roots.
“The process is lengthy, but they’ve achieved the return on investment they were after. They’ve got workers who want to work and who come highly qualified. “Come to the conversation with an open mind,” she said. “Generally, they’re hard-working, grateful and they’re loyal.”
Be smarter in your recruitment “If you’re recruiting, you’ve got to completely reimagine the opportunity that you are providing by giving someone a job,” Rachael said.
Rachael’s pro-tip: “I highly recommend considering a move to some version of a four-day work week and using that as a recruitment tool because it works amazingly well,” she said.
1 4 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
“To win someone over to your business these days, you have to offer them the best job they’ve ever had.” That might mean doing things you’re uncomfortable with, like: Offering a relocation bonus. Offering your Facebook followers/customers a spotter’s fee to tag a friend in the trade who might be looking for a better opportunity. Offering a four-day working week.
Focus on retention strategies It’s easier to keep the staff you have than it is to recruit new team members, so Rachael recommends paying close attention to retention. “That starts with their leadership,” she said. “It’s the owner’s job to set the culture.” Ask yourself: What’s my assessment of my own leadership? What are the values that I hold dear? What values do I want the team to work by? How do we start the culture that we want?
Make sure you’re charging customers to reflect your costs “When you’ve got a three-week waiting list (if it’s not through inefficiency), you are technically what we’ d call oversubscribed,” Rachael said. Be really picky and choosy with the work that you do. Only accept the work that you know makes you the profit that you want to make. Stop doing those jobs where you always write off 10 hours and you don’t get to sell your labour time.
Rachael recommends: If you’re oversubscribed, reassess and recalculate your pricing to reflect your costs and ensure you’re getting the return you deserve. Consider the economic supply and demand equation in your calculations.
You can read State of the Nation Special Report: The Skills Shortage at cap.coop/son-skills
C A P R I C O R N I GC NA I TPIR OIN CORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023 NOVEMBER 2023 1 5
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… about Capricorn and earn
10,000 BONUS POINTS If you know someone in the auto business who isn’t a Member then now’s the perfect time to Spread the Word.
Simply pass on the lead to your Area Manager between 1 September to 30 November 2023, and when they join you’ll get 10,000 Bonus Points as a thank you.
join@capricorn.coop | capricorn.coop | 0800 401 444 The promotion is open to a New Zealand Capricorn Member who during the period of 1 September to 30 November 2023 refers a prospective Capricorn Member to their Area Manager. Allocation of the 10,000 Capricorn Bonus Rewards Points (“Member Reward”) is subject to the referred prospect becoming a Member by 31 January 2024. Participation in the Capricorn Rewards scheme is subject to the Capricorn Rewards Terms and Conditions which can be found at: cap.coop/tc. The Member Reward is not redeemable for cash or transferable. For full promotional Terms and Conditions please visit cap.coop/tc. Shares are issued by Capricorn Society Limited (ACN 008 347 313). No offer of shares is made in this promotion. An offer of shares will only be made in, or accompanied by, Capricorn’s Prospectus and any supplementary prospectus which is available on request or may be viewed at www.capricorn.coop/corporate-documents. Before making any decision to apply for shares, prospective members should consider the Prospectus and any supplementary prospectus. Any application for shares must be made on the application form in or accompanying the Prospectus.
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printing and the automotive aftermarket What does the future hold?
I
s three-dimensional (3D) printing set to be yet another great disruptor in our industry, upsetting supply chains and overturning business models? Or is it destined to become a novelty—a technology used on the sidelines of the aftermarket to make trinkets like custom spoilers and cupholders?
With 3D printing becoming more popular and more freely available, Capricorn wanted to better understand the implications of “additive manufacturing” (as it is also known) for the aftermarket. Our Innovation Team recently investigated 3D printing to find out where things stand and where things are headed.
What is 3D printing? First, a brief explanation of additive manufacturing. In essence, it’s a process that creates three-dimensional objects, layer by layer, using a pattern from a digital model. Where an office printer uses ink, a 3D printer can use plastic, metal and other modern materials. The technology was invented in the early 1980s, became popular for scientific and manufacturing (specifically prototyping) uses through the 1990s and 2000s, and came properly into public consciousness in the 2010s. It has been used to create everything from entire buildings to human organs (the first 3D-printed human bladder was successfully transplanted in 2010).
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With such a range of uses and the technology constantly improving, it would be unwise to ignore its potential in the aftermarket. Here’s what our Innovation Team found.
The capacity for customisation One of the most compelling advantages of 3D printing is its capacity for customisation. Unlike traditional manufacturing, which often requires expensive tooling changes for each new design, 3D printing allows for customisation at virtually no extra cost. This opens up a world of possibilities for creating custom parts and accessories that cater to individual tastes and requirements.
A means of decentralising production By enabling production at the point of use, 3D printing potentially increases the availability and accessibility of parts. This could be particularly beneficial for Capricorn Members, as it could reduce your dependence on original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). With the ability to adjust or remanufacture parts onsite, Members could continue operations even when no suppliers exist or when supply has ceased for specific parts or products. 3D printing is already being used by vintage and classic car enthusiasts in particular, to recreate obsolete or hard-to-find parts.
A more efficient use of materials The way objects are produced by 3D printing significantly reduces waste, as it’s not a subtractive process (a new part isn’t being carved out of a larger block of metal). This not only reduces the cost of production but also contributes to sustainability, a growing concern in today’s industries.
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But there are challenges, too That all sounds great. So, is it time to wave goodbye to your suppliers and buy a 3D printer? The short answer is no. And it probably never will be. At present, 3D printing is expensive. The printers can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. The printing process is slow for mass production and the cost of materials is also high—more than traditional manufacturing methods for large production runs. Costs also rise exponentially for larger parts.
Quality can be a problem Then there’s the quality. Surface finish is a particular concern. According to Luke Truskinger, Managing Director of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s Auto Innovation Centre, there’s also a problem with strength. The centre has tested the technology and has owned several 3D printers. “It’s good for jigging and brackets and things that don’t have a high strength requirement,” he said. “It’s good for prototyping or producing packaging but for most people, 3D printing isn’t the final manufacturing method.” “Realistically, the benefit of a very expensive printer and material could, in our experience, only rarely be fully utilised.”
There are ongoing running costs Luke warned that there are expenses to running 3D printers beyond the cost of the machine and the materials. “You always have a lot of labour going into loading machines, running machines, deep prepping them, post-processing, and things like that,” he said. “Just like we’ve learned over the years with CNC machining, you’ve got to run the machines hard, you’ve got to run them efficiently, otherwise it’s just not worth it. If you just run them every now and again, material goes stale; the machines aren’t happy. You’ve got to keep up the throughput to stabilise the economics of the operation.”
The job isn’t done when the printer stops Many 3D printed parts require significant post-processing, such as cleaning, removing support structures, and finishing, which can add time and cost to the production process. Additional equipment might be required to do this.
So, does 3D printing have a future in the aftermarket? For all this, 3D printing is here to stay. We’re seeing technologies become more accessible, affordable (as little as $2000) and able to integrate into how technicians work. Printing-as-a-service businesses are starting to pop up from OEMs and other sector participants. The number of materials suitable for 3D printing, including different metals, is increasing, and 3D printer providers are developing new proprietary materials. They’re expensive, but those costs should come down over time. And that’s the key point for Capricorn’s Chief Innovation and Transformational Officer, Kim Radalj.“There’s definitely a role for 3D printing in the aftermarket, but at the moment that’s being applied in very specific areas, like prototyping and niche applications,” he said. “But like any computer—remember the printers we used to have 30 years ago—this technology is going to continue evolving and getting cheaper. We’ll have to keep watch on how it’s being applied.” While 3D printing presents challenges, it also has the potential to become a powerful tool for the aftermarket.
Are you a Capricorn Member who currently uses 3D printing in your business? Our Innovation Team would love to have a chat to find out more about how you’re making use of this emerging technology. Just send them an email at innovation@capricorn.coop to get in touch!
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FUTURE/ MEMBER RIDE:
apte 2 2 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
era COULD THE APTERA BE THE EV THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING? CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
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aptera t’s not uncommon to hear people say electric vehicles (EV) will never catch on in Australia because the need to frequently recharge batteries is incompatible with the tremendous distances some people travel. But what if that EV could do 1600 kilometres on a single charge? And what if that vehicle not only already had a fuel efficiency equivalent to 0.65 litres per 100 km, but also could recharge its batteries for free, from the sun? Sounding a lot more tempting, isn’t it? That’s certainly what Capricorn Member Andrew McLean thought when he first heard about the Aptera—the US-made solar-powered vehicle being marketed as the world’s first “never charge” transportation solution. Andrew, formerly the owner-operator of Triple C Mobile Mechanix in Brisbane’s North, was so sold on the Aptera, he reserved one and became an ambassador for the company. “When I was an apprentice, they told us that one day we would be driving cars that would run on 10% of the energy they do now,” Andrew said. “I actually didn’t believe them but then I saw this and I thought, ‘it’s here’”. “It’s got a 100 kW battery, so you can travel one charge from Brisbane to Cairns or Brisbane to Adelaide. You can get 20,000 kms a year, just from leaving it in the sun.” So, what’s the catch? Firstly, it’s a two-seater. Secondly, it’s not technically a car. In the US this zippy three-wheeler is classified as an autocycle. In other countries, it’s considered a motorcycle. In Australia, it’s a motor tricycle—which means it can be licensed for use on the roads although, technically, under current laws, the driver might be required to wear a helmet. In the US, those laws are already changing to exempt the Aptera from helmet laws. Does the classification of the vehicle bring with it other limitations? Just how practical is the Aptera? “People say, ‘it won’t do this; it won’t do that’,” Andrew said. “Look, it won’t drive 40 ton of cattle over the Nullabor for you either. Those arguments are ridiculous. For a commuter, it’s perfect. The average person does 30 km a day commuting. You drive it to work, park it in the sun, and at the end of the day you’ve got 55 km worth of free fuel. 55 km every day. That’s insane.” Let’s dive into what the Aptera offers. Firstly, the range. It goes five times further than most other EVs and the company says the average driver will only have to charge the vehicle about three times a year.
24 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
It has a top speed of 162.5 kilometres per hour and goes from zero to 100 kmh in 4 seconds. “This is supercar stuff,” Andrew said. Made from ultra-lightweight composites, it weighs about 65% less than the average EV. It’s also stunningly aerodynamic. The shape mimics a dolphin and has a drag coefficient of 0.13. By way of comparison, a Toyota Corolla rates at 0.29 and a Tesla Model 3 at 0.23. The entire Aptera vehicle is more aerodynamic than the wing mirror alone on a Ford F150. It also comes with a range of safety features including a forward collision warning system, two airbags, four external cameras and parking assistance. It has all-wheel drive and anti-lock braking, uses 16-inch tyres, and has been developed to handle well in all weather conditions. The addition of a third motor on the rear wheel provides extra regenerative braking capabilities and allows for improved performance, handling, and traction. The company claims it makes it “better for driving and handling in snowy, off-road, or icy conditions”. If you do take it off the beaten track, there’s plenty of room in the boot for all your gear. The Aptera promo video actually shows it fitting a surfboard. There’s 0.92 square metres of space (almost as much as a Leyland P76, which at 1.01 metres squared could famously hold a 44-gallon drum). It also comes with an optional two-person fold-out tent, which extends from the boot. But recreational pursuits like camping trips aren’t likely to be the workaday use for the Aptera. Andrew believes they’re the perfect commuter vehicle for modern urban living. He is also absolutely convinced that they’re the future. “I think Aptera will sell a million of these pretty quickly,” he said. Some 44,000 people worldwide have put their names down for one so far. The vehicle is due to come into production at the end of this year, so we’ll soon find out if Andrew’s prediction is correct. The right-hand drive version is due to land in Australia in 2025—including the one Andrew pre-ordered. The base model costs US$25,900. Will the Aptera catch on the way Andrew hopes? Time will tell. If you want to learn more, head to aptera.us.
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Car Review
Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC
2023
2 6 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
An interesting beast, and far more enjoyable to drive than the bigger EQS!
L
ast year we spent time with the rather expensive Mercedes-AMG EQS and we found it to be as impressive as the tech behind it. But the EQS was right in the top price bracket, with a price tag of $310,900. Thankfully, the 2023 Mercedes EQE range has several variants, starting at $132,100 all the way up to $195,000, making the fully electric saloon a somewhat expensive but more realistic option across the market. DriveLife got our hands on the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC, which is $195,000. Not cheap, but when you consider it’s more than 30% ($115,000) less expensive than the EQS and looks pretty similar, you might not be too bothered whether there is an S or E on the boot lid. For those who may not be up to speed on the entire Mercedes range, the EQE is the full EV version of the E-Class, just like the EQS is the full EV version of the S-Class. The EQS made a big impression on me, pushing the bar up and over everything that is currently available. They not only created a fast car, but they also created a very useable everyday car with a great range and simple user interface that was combined with an ultimate luxury interior. If the EQE is based on the same platform and design, it’s a pretty good place to start.
What we like and dislike about the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE What we like
What we don’t like
● Exterior front design ● Interior styling and space ● Technology ● Performance ● Massage seats
● Exterior rear design ● Price tag ● Rear lip spoiler ● At-home charging time
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What’s in the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE range? There are three models available for the EQE, starting with the EQE 300 ($132,100), moving to the EQE 350 4MATIC ($145,000) and the top model EQE 53 4MATIC+ ($195,000). Even though the EQE 53 4MATIC+ is cheaper than the EQS, I fear the price tag is still not for everyone, but in saying that, neither is an E-Class. The base model EQE 300 comes with a single electric motor, an 89 kWh battery electric powertrain with 180 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque. The EQE 300 can launch from zero to 100 kmh in 7.3 seconds. The mid-range model, the EQE 350 4MATIC, comes with a dual electric motor, a 90.5 kWh battery electric powertrain with 215 kW of power and 765 Nm of torque. This model can launch from zero to 100 kmh in 6.3 seconds. The top model, the EQE 53 4MATIC+ comes with a dual motor, 90.5 kWh battery electric powertrain with 460 kW of power and 950 Nm of torque. This means EQE 53 4MATIC+ can launch from zero to 100 kmh in 3.5 seconds.
How does the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC compare to its competition? As the buyer, you have to look at what is important to you. Is it Formula 1 acceleration or is it luxury? Tesla is the big name everyone talks about, but right now they are only selling the Model 3 and Y. If they had the Model S Plaid, I still think they struggle to stand next to Porsche and Mercedes when it comes to luxury vehicles that are tried and tested. All prices below exclude the refund or additional cost of the New Zealand Clean Car Programme (CCP).
Range
Make/ Model
Battery Capacity
Power/ Torque
0-100 km/h
(WLTP)
Porsche Taycan Turbo
93.4
500/850
3.2
Audi RS E-Tron GT
93
440/830
Audi E-Tron GT Quattro
93
MercedesAMG EQE
90.5
(kWh)
Boot Space
Price
(litres)
(excl. CCP)
394
366
$304,300
3.3
472
350
$289,990
350/630
4.5
478
350
$205,990
484/950
3.5
500
430
$195,000
(kW/Nm)
2 8 CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
(seconds)
First impressions of the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC Even if you didn’t know about the EQS, you would instantly identify this vehicle as an EV with that subtle EV-like aerodynamic design. However, if you did see or drive the EQS, you might be hardpressed to see the difference from the EQE. The only noticeable difference would be the length and the badge. Unlike the EQS, the EQE was blue with big black wheels, and it looked great. The 21” AMG Y-spoke alloy wheels gave this vehicle a very aggressive look, made that much better as they sat over the massive carbon ceramic brake kit. This vehicle means business, which is clear from the 0-100 spec of 3.5 seconds — 0.2 seconds faster than the EQS due to the fact it’s a bit lighter and has fewer batteries. The overall design of the EQE is somewhat slick and space age, except for the rear and the disappointingly cheap stuck-on lip spoiler. This is the same problem the more expensive EQS had. The front and side of the EQE looked great, with a high-end feel. The rear is a bit unfinished and feels disconnected from the rest of the car. Regardless of this, the overall look and feel are very high-end and futuristic. Just like with the EQS, I didn’t like seeing the AMG badge on the back. It’s a high-end EV and it would be quick, but I am not on board with the link and heritage of what AMG stands for.
What’s the interior like in the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC? Being the smaller brother to the EQS, the EQE is pretty much identical inside. Inside the EQE feels like it’s ahead of its time, more like the future of flying cars than the battery generation we are moving into. The finish is clean, and I really loved the beautiful carbon finish on the panel. It wouldn’t be an E-class if the seats didn’t cost more than most average cars. Style-wise they look great — sculpted shapes with a raised and almost floating headrest. Being that the EQE is a bit
sportier in nature than the EQS, it’s good to see the very supportive side bolsters. Like the S-Class and EQS we tested, the EQE has an automatic seat-position set-up based on your height. The seats are also both heated and cooled and have a full range of massage options. The seats in the rear are just like the EQS — a drastic downgrade from the front. Similar in style and design, but they are heated and cooled and the leg room in the rear is good. Just like in the EQS, this interior space is due to the shorter front and rear of the vehicle, allowing a larger cabin for passengers. The infotainment is very much the centrestage of this car. The entire dashboard is one massive glass screen with three separate touchscreens built into it: one for the driver, behind the steering wheel; one in the centre for general displays, maps and settings; and one for the passenger. The driver’s display feels like a futuristic PS5 game. It’s a graphic tunnel you look down at, with wave-form gauges flowing around the outside for power use and brake regeneration. I think it’s the first really outside-the-box dash graphic design, and I love it. In the centre of this visual there is a vertical graph that shows how much you’re using for the acceleration and braking force of the system. The central screen is huge and allows you access to all of the car’s features and settings. It’s super easy to navigate, and even the home screen has some of the more regularly used buttons available without submenus. I found that driving at night was easy. Unlike some other EVs with large screens which are too bright at night, the EQE adjusts the display brightness so that it’s not a distraction by illuminating the cabin too much. The view out of the rear window is okay; it’s a tight and narrow space, as the boot is high and the rake of the rear window is low, which I assume is for aerodynamics. The boot space is good, and unlike the EQS the EQE has a regular sedan boot lid.
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What’s the 2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC like to drive? The EQE is a bit of a beast, as it’s lighter than the EQS, which gives it a faster zero to 100kmh time of 3.5 seconds. Do you need this sort of performance from an EV? No, but it was fun to test and it’s the main gimmick that all the EV manufacturers continue to promote over ICE vehicles. The downside of this is that not everyone who is behind the wheel of a car should have access to power like this, as you can very quickly run out of driver skill at those sorts of speeds. But what is the EQE like to drive when compared to its bigger brother, the EQS? The main feeling was that the EQE was more nimble. Fewer batteries and a couple of inches in body length seem to make all the difference. Mercedes-Benz advertised the kWh/100km rating as 22.7kWh/100km, and during my time behind the wheel, I managed 25kWh/100km. I feel like I could have achieved closer to the advertised if I had been more of an EV angel and less of a spirited driver.
Much like the EQS, the steering wheel has a lot going on: lots of buttons, paddles for brake regeneration modes and AMG performance dials. It has far too many buttons (which makes me sound very old) but there was too much going on. The driving ones like cruise control, volume, phone, and speed limiter were fine, but the row of controls above split between the left side controlling the central display and the right side controlling the driver’s dash are just too much. The wheel itself was great — very comfortable — and I found myself using the brake regen mode via paddles a lot on the motorway, going from Coast Mode to +2 for heavy braking from the motor when leaving the motorway. Just like the EQS, the AMG aspect of the EQE was great. There are five driving modes: Snow and Ice, Individual, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. When in Comfort mode, the vehicle has a huge amount of torque — 950 Nm to be exact. Unlike the EQS, the Sport modes in the EQE are noticeably different. The overall vibe inside and the ambient sound were louder, and boy did this car move once you stepped on it. The noise in the background is a bass-like drone that is deeper than the electric motor noises. As the car felt more nimble than the EQS, the combined Sport modes made it rather fun to drive. Inside the cabin, it’s very quiet when daily driving, just like the EQS. The suspension is stiffer, which may have been due to it being a bit smaller and lighter. The EQE was able to re-create the same relaxing space and environment that the EQS did, leaving the driver relaxed and refreshed even after a big drive. One aspect that you need to consider which also affects the EQS is that the EQE has a huge battery, and EVs with big batteries do not charge fast at home. You really need to be using fast or high-power chargers; otherwise, you could be left waiting a day or two to charge at home from the wall plug.
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2023 Mercedes-AMG EQE 53 4MATIC Summary I was not sure what to expect from the new Mercedes AMG EQE. At first glance, it appeared to just be a slightly smaller EQS. Even though that car impressed me, I found it hard to see why anyone would buy it due to the hefty price tag. The EQE is not cheap, but it has come back to the land of expensive cars that you can start to compare it to and justify the cost. The EQE is still outside-the-box thinking; you have to want to be a bit different and be ok with the lifestyle change to full EV. The EQE will make this life a luxury one, more than most of its competitors will. It feels like the future, not only in looks but in spec and features too. It’s clear that Mercedes has put their money where their mouth is and have thrown down the gauntlet to all the other brands in the EV market to say, “this is how it should be done”. High-performance EV sedans are an interesting breed and will always be very specific to each potential owner, or looks, performance or the brand. Most won’t care about how efficient they are, so it’s best to ensure you try them all before you buy. The Mercedes-AMG EQE is an interesting beast, and far more enjoyable to drive than the bigger EQS.
10
Driver Technology
9
Economy
8
Handling
9
Infotainment
10
Interior
10
Performance
9
Ride
9
Safety
7
Styling
7
Value
Have you enjoyed this review? Be sure to join DriveLife’s monthly newsletter at drivelife.co.nz/newsletter/ and you won’t miss a single car review!
CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
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PREFERRED SUPPLIER PROFILES 20
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CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
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Are you struggling to find skilled staff? Then you’re not alone. According to our latest survey, only 44% of Members reported being adequately staffed (down 11% from 2022). 43%
I am struggling to find skilled staff
33% 32%
I am currently looking for staff
I have unfilled staff positions
24%
2022
24%
2023
15%
None of above – adequately staffed
44% 54%
Our State of the Nation Special Report: The Skills Shortage also found: There are approximately 13,600 skilled role vacancies across Capricorn’s Membership. Members ranked “finding good staff ” as the biggest challenge running an automotive business. Members ranked “lack of qualified staff” and “attracting young people into the industry” as the biggest challenges facing the auto industry. Most specialised roles take around 6 to 8 months to fill.
Keen to learn more about the skills shortage and the impact that it’s having? Check out the State of the Nation Special Report: The Skills Shortage at cap.coop/son-23 now.
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WORD HUNTER Find the 15 words hidden in the jumble. They could be horizontal, vertical, diagonal or backwards. See if you can find them all! BRAKES
INDICATOR
CLUTCH
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TYRES
GEARBOX
WINDSCREEN
HEADLIGHTS
WIPERS
IGNITION
CAPRICORN IGNITION NOVEMBER 2023
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Save 13c per litre this October and November when you use your Capricorn Fuel Card at a participating Mobil site. After 30 November, the standard Capricorn Fuel Card discount will increase from 6c per litre to 8c per litre!
TM
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Apply now via myCAP cap.coop/ GetFuelCard
Fuel discount applies to the full retail pump price including GST and excludes LPG, and applies to participating NZ petrol stations. Applications and use of the Capricorn Mobil Fuel Card are subject to the NZ – Capricorn Mobil Card – Terms and Conditions which can be found at capricorn.coop/TC. Members will no longer receive Capricorn Rewards Points on Capricorn Fuel Card transactions.